The silver-embellished pommel and the crossguard made of copper (rather than steel) wrapped with silver wire suggest that this sword was intended for presentation or for ceremonial use rather than for battle. The Latin quotation inscribed on the pommel reads (in translation): "Here, too, virtue has its due reward" (Virgil, Aeneid, Book 1, line 461). The inscription (now illegible) on the blade is an early example of the use of acid to etch decoration on weapons.

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